Page 108 - San Angelo

who are trained, talented, and equipped to dance professionally.

Though Bridgeman is an effective dichotomy of professional dancer turned teacher, she is the frst to admit that the switch isn’t always easy or successful.

“Just because you were or are a professional dancer, doesn’t mean that you will make an effective instructor. Dancing professionally defnitely helped because I could transfer my stories and experiences once I began teaching, but they are inherently different jobs.” However, Bridgeman says her switch from dancing professionally to professional instruction has been a positive experience and feels proud of the change the ballet has seen, especially in the caliber of dancers the SACB is producing. Bridgeman adapted a classical curriculum for the program. To effectively integrate and transition in the new curriculum for the SACB, Bridgeman received four years of continuing education: three years at the Central Pennsylvania Ballet and one year at the National Ballet School of Canada. Bridgeman’s curriculum is largely based on Marica Dale Weary’s from Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet.

Though the process of dance instruction is often a tough love process, Bridgeman commends her dancers and their dedication. “I think most of them have a high likelihood of making it as professional dancers. Most of our upper level dancers are traveling across the U.S. this summer to study at some of the best ballet schools in the world.”

A normal weekly schedule for a Level Four dancer incorporates at least thirty hours of work split between rehearsal, Pilates, technique and pointe work, and modern dance class, making it certainly a full time job and a way of life for many of the students.

The SACB also offers classes for children as young as three with styles ranging from jazz, tap, and ballet. Ballet classes comprise the largest number of classes offered beginning with the Creative Movements classes for the youngest students and continuing through advanced pointe classes. The SACB also offers community classes: Adult/Teen Ballet, Adult Contemporary Dance, Yoga Kids, Mommy/ Daddy & Me, Broadway Fit, and Pilates that are offered at special rates for any interested

Though the process of dance instruction is often a tough love process, Bridgeman commends her dancers and their dedication. “I think most of them have a high likelihood of making it as professional dancers. Most of our upper level dancers are traveling across the U.S. this summer to study at some of the best ballet schools in the world.”

XX San Angelo Lifestyles